Unless you have been under a rock for the last few years, you have undoubtedly heard about the mess that was WWE 2K20. Even the most dedicated wrestling fans can agree that the game was a complete botch. Considering that 2K has been practically re-released the same game every year, it is a good thing that they took a year off to hopefully build a better product. With the time away, 2K will need to release a solid game to regain the fans they have lost from the mess that was 2K20. Considering that we are big wrestling fans here, we know a thing or two about a solid wrestling game. Here are the ways that 2K can fix WWE 2K22.

Slim Down the Roster

The WWE has a massive roster of talented wrestlers from around the globe to choose from when building the roster. Ranging from their flagship shows like Raw and Smackdown, to NXT and their roster of established and new talent alike, and even their network shows like 205 Live and partnership with other promotions WWE has no shortage of talent to choose from for the games. While this would seem like any wrestling fans dream come true, it’s become more of a curse than anything. While the top stars look photo realistic, 90% of the roster looks terrible in comparison. I’m not saying every character needs to look perfect, however since most of the characters act exactly the same (which we’ll touch on soon) it comes off as a waste of space. 2K needs to put in a solid effort into a set number of talent by making them look and act like their real life counterparts.

New Engine

This one may be more difficult than anything else on this list as 2K has announced they will reveal 2K22 at WrestleMania, but it’s something that needs to be done regardless. Many of the bugs that plagued 2K20 can be attributed to an outdated engine. Considering that they’ve taken a year off and new consoles have released, it’s the perfect time to revamp the series. Considering the upcoming release of the AEW game, 2K needs to find everyway to win over fans considering the excitement for the latter.

Add in the GM Mode

So not to beat a dead horse, but here it goes! The GM mode was one of the most sought-after features since it was cut back in SVR 2008. GM mode gave players a chance to take on a different role in a wrestling game that wasn’t just in the ring. Being able to run a wrestling promotion allows players to setup events, negotiate contracts with talent, and manage the finances. While being a General Manager may sound bland, once you get into the mode you’ll be hooked. Now I know people will say this mode won’t work in the modern wrestling games for a variety of different reasons, games like Fire Pro Wrestling have successfully added to mode with positive feedback for fans. With most other sports games offering a GM mode, 2K22 needs to be the year it returns.

Better AI

My largest complaint with 2K games in recent years is the lack of diversity. Aside from the signature move sets of each wrestler, most talent is bland and lifeless. Considering that wrestling prides itself on unique characters, this seems like a massive failure on 2K’s part. When you consider that games like Fire Pro Wrestling have not only capitalized on the move sets of talent perfectly, but their habits are also perfectly emulated. Move setups, timing of taunts, and effectiveness of finishers are almost exactly like you would see in NJPW, AEW, or ROH event. This goes back to the size of the roster though because the more characters they must detail, the less details each wrestler gets.

Will 2K make the changes to fix the colossal mess that was 2K20, or will they stay the course until competition causes them to improve? Regardless of your thoughts of the WWE itself, the wrestling games are incredibly fun so who wouldn’t want to see success?